Embark was founded with the mission to end preventable diseases in dogs. To help achieve this, Embark’s dog DNA tests use a research-grade microarray. This allows us to provide the most accurate and comprehensive results on the market, as well as to conduct ongoing research and make new genetic discoveries to further canine health. Meet our veterinary geneticists, Dr. Kari Cueva and Dr. Jenna Dockweiller, and learn more about how veterinary practices and breeders can work directly with our team.
Dr. Kari Cueva
Dr. Kari Cueva, DVM, is the Senior Manager of Veterinary Genetics at Embark. She started with Embark in 2019 and her primary role is to expand our health testing capabilities. She is a 2011 graduate of the University of California, Davis College of Veterinary Medicine. Her research background includes four years in canine genetics with Dr. Mark Neff, and genetics fellowships at Cornell University and the National Institutes of Health. She continues to practice emergency medicine at a local animal hospital. Dr. Cueva enjoys spending time with her two kids, hiking with her German Shorthaired Pointer, and fixing her house.
Dr. Jenna Dockweiler
Dr. Jenna Dockweiler, MS, DVM, DACT, CCRT, CVAT, graduated from Kansas State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine with honors in 2014 and completed her small animal rotating internship at Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital in 2015. She then completed her comparative theriogenology residency at Cornell University in 2017 and became a diplomate of the American College of Theriogenologists that year. She practiced small animal theriogenology and general practice for four years before becoming a veterinary geneticist with Embark Veterinary. Dr. Dockweiler enjoys photography, hiking, competing in performance events, and conformation with her Welsh Springer Spaniels in her spare time.
How Veterinarians Can Work with Embark’s Vet Geneticists
Embark’s vet geneticists can assist veterinary professionals looking for expert advice on incorporating genetic health information into proactive care plans for their patients. The in-house team is also available to provide one-on-one consultations via phone, email, and at in-person events throughout the year. In addition to supporting our veterinary and breeders communities, these veterinary geneticists also work closely with our in-house research scientists to make new genetic discoveries.
Email vetsupport@embarkvet.com to learn how to bring genetic testing into your practice or visit Embark for Veterinarians.
How Breeders Can Work with Embark’s Vet Geneticists
Embark veterinarian geneticists are here to help breeders apply all the information provided in their DNA Test results and optimize their breeding decisions. Depending on the questions and interests of the breeder, the expert advice provided in these consultations often covers the following topics:
- Mating Assessment: Given the tested dog’s results for genetic health conditions and genetic COI, what should the breeder look for in the potential mate to maximize the genetic health of the litter? This can include assessing clear, carrier, and “at-risk” status for various conditions, the genetic COI of the dog compared to the breed’s averages and more.
- Litter Assessment: When Embark tests both prospective mating pair dogs, our team can provide specific guidance on the projected litter and more fully inform the breeders about its potential genetic health. This assessment can also include the expected physical traits of the puppies in the litter (coat color, shedding, etc.).
- Research and Trends for your breed. Embark’s veterinarians can advise on current or upcoming research related to your breed and how breeders can support these efforts. Your questions and suggestions are always welcome as well!
Email Breeders@embarkvet.com to set up your consultation or visit Embark for Breeders.
